Tahiti Surf Beach Paradise

We cooked dinner every night in the well-equipped room and ate with the waves crashing nearby. The room is a bit snug, but has what you need, a very good shower, and a comfortable bed. There was no A/C in our room, but it wasn't necessary. The owners, Kat and Cyril, are friendly and helpful. There's a washer, clotheslines, and lots of beach gear, including towels, snorkel equipment, and kids stuff. The place is right on a long, curving black sand beach, with waves just steps away. There are only three units, so the atmosphere is laid back and it feels like a faraway island, even though it's Tahiti. Papara has good supermarkets and a few places to eat within walking distance, including a snack restaurant on the sand nearby. The pool is excellent. For snorkeling, the current is strong right in front, but there is calmer water offshore if you walk to a nearby marae, see Google Maps for “Plage.” It's far enough from the big city to feel peaceful and safe. We wished we could have stayed longer.